WIth the above requirements in mind, and the meager resources in my pocketbook(I am currently a full-time Geology student), I set out on my quest for the ultimate cave van. A lot of searching,checking and measuring showed me that a Dana 30 front end from a Jeep Cherokee(XJ) would fit the bill perfectly. The tread width is identical to my van. They aren't bulletproof, but one should hold up well in the service intended. The Jeep uses a four-link/coil spring arrangement, but I have already obtained new spring pads from Mopar Performance to make it an easy swap. I also was able to determine that there is a boss on top of the driver's side spindle which can easily be drilled to accept the steering arm that will be necessary for the 'for/aft' drag link steering arrangement on the van. As an added bonus,the wheel bolt pattern is the same and this swap will give me front disc brakes! Another reason I chose to use the Jeep axle is the driver's side driveshaft arrangement. This will make transfer case choices much more straightforward. Current plans are for a three speed(I know! but I am stuck with a column shift, and don't really want an automatic)tranny and transfer case from a '67-'71 Bronco. This swap will require only the fabrication of a t/case cross-member,custom length driveshafts and a small amount of welding on the spring perches. The van currently has a 9" Ford axle which I will probably retain, though I will have to 'flip' the spring perches to get a level ride height. I have also toyed with the idea of using an 8.8" Ranger dif in conjunction with a limited slip carrier out of a Mustang(I already have the carrier),but I think I'd be better off saving my money and buying a locker for the 9". I suppose that how my driveshaft angle turns out will be the determining factor in that debate-the rear driveshaft is going to be terribly short anyway (and we all know how low 9" Ford pinions are!). I plan on swapping in a 302 in place of the old 240-it's a bolt-in (not so on 144/170 equipped E models) That will require a larger radiator I am sure, but I'll leap that hurdle when I get there. I have procured the interior of a late model conversion van-sofa bed and all!. And, yes, there is enough room for that baby to fit in there! The ol' gal is currently sitting on neat Ford aluminum Rally's off of a Ranger, but I have some Cherokee wheels that I may switch to.....?? Now, if I could just figure a way to finance this venture!